SASKATOON – About 80 teachers and other supporters gathered outside the office of the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) Sunday night. Mourners lit candles and held a moment of silence for the four people killed and seven wounded in La Loche, Sask.
Two staff members of the La Loche Community School died in the Friday afternoon shooting. Adam Wood was just months into his career as an educator. Teacher’s aide Marie Janvier started working at the school last fall.
FULL COVERAGE: La Loche school shooting
Kelli White organized the Saskatoon vigil in a matter of hours.
“Hearing the news on Friday you just kind of go into shock and devastation,” said White, a middle years teacher at Aberdeen Composite School.
The other two victims, brothers Drayden Fontaine, 13, and Dayne Fontaine, 17, attended the school. They were killed at a home nearby.
READ MORE: La Loche school shooting: a timeline of events
Pat Maze, president of the STF, said the teachers’ union will offer financial assistance to school staff in the community of around 3000 people.
“Nobody goes to work to have situations like this occur. We just want to make sure that teachers are looking after each other and supporting each other as needed,” said Maze.
The STF is sending two counsellors to La Loche Monday to offer support to staff.
Teachers working for Saskatoon Public Schools have received information on how to answer student questions and provide reassurance in the days after the La Loche shooting.
“Due to the close ties that exist in this province, we are expecting there will be members of our school communities (students, families, staff members) who are personally impacted by the La Loche tragedy,” according to a statement from Veronica Baker, spokesperson for the school division.
Staff have been asked to watch for signs that young people may be struggling. Guidance counsellors are available to help students at every school in the division.
Comments